Phenakite

Phenakite: a mineral crystallizing in the trigonal system with a prismatic habit. Chemically, it is a Beryllium Orthosilicate with the formula Be₂SiO₄. It exhibits a vitreous to adamantine luster. Transparency ranges from transparent to translucent. Color varies from colorless, pale yellow, pale pink, to gray. The clear, colorless variety is sometimes used as a gemstone. It is found in Mica Schist alongside Emerald, Chrysoberyl, and Topaz.

back to the gemological glossary